Published on: April 2, 2026, 02:17h.

Updated on: April 2, 2026, 02:22h.

• Reports indicate that Kirk Cousins’ free agency agreement with the Las Vegas Raiders could total five years and $172 million.
• The Raiders aim to draft Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza in the upcoming NFL Draft.
• Mendoza is heavily favored at -20000 to be selected first overall by the Raiders.

With Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza being the leading candidate to join the Las Vegas Raiders as the first overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft, the Raiders have taken proactive steps to secure a veteran mentor for their future star, should they proceed with this plan.

Staggering Odds for Mendoza to Go No. 1

However, the signing of Cousins may also suggest the Raiders intend to explore other options in the draft, potentially addressing different roster needs with their top pick. The NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.

Oddsmakers maintain a strong belief that Mendoza will be the first overall selection.

Current odds reflect that sentiment: DraftKings at -20000, FanFuel at -20000, and Caesars Sportsbook also at -20000, with Arvell Reese trailing at +6000.

Mentorship for Mendoza

“The addition of Kirk Cousins was widely expected,” noted Joey Feazel, Head of Football at Caesars Sportsbook. “The NFL often mirrors successful strategies, and we anticipated the Raiders would adopt a similar mindset to the Giants last season by acquiring a veteran quarterback to facilitate the transition for a young rookie entering the league.”

“Jaxson Dart had the advantage of learning from both Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, which positioned him favorably when he took the field after five games. I believe the Raiders will replicate this strategy by still drafting Mendoza and implementing a similar plan.”

Assuming the Raiders do draft Mendoza, they are setting up a robust foundation for him to excel in the NFL.

Betting Trends

Cousins is not just a fantastic player but also an excellent daily mentor and is likely to lead the Raiders as their starting quarterback this season. Additionally, Tom Brady, widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in history and a partial owner of the team, serves as an inspiration for Mendoza, who idolized Brady during his time winning Super Bowls.

The Raiders announced last week the hiring of Mike Sullivan as their new quarterbacks coach. Sullivan brings over two decades of coaching experience, with the most recent roles including quarterbacks coach for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2021-23 and senior offensive assistant in 2024. He has also held the position of offensive coordinator with the New York Giants and Tampa Bay Buccaneers throughout his career.

Following a disappointing 3-14 season, wherein the Raiders dismissed their coach and appointed Klint Kubiak, the team was also on the verge of securing a trade with the Baltimore Ravens for Pro Bowl defensive end Maxx Crosby. This deal, however, fell through due to health concerns surrounding Crosby’s knee. Casino.org’s Jason La Canfora had hinted at the possibility of the Raiders acquiring Cousins in his analysis regarding Crosby last month.

Positive Insights from Bettors

Perceptions among bettors seem optimistic, particularly after a bustling free agency period that saw the Raiders make strategic signings, highlighted by center Tyler Linderbaum’s three-year, $81 million contract. They also secured offensive lineman Spencer Burford on a one-year deal, along with linebackers Quay Walker (three years, $40.5 million), Nakobe Dean (three years, $36 million), and edge rusher Kwity Paye (three years, $48 million).

“The Raiders are generating a substantial wave of excitement among bettors this offseason,” stated Feazel. “With their active roster improvements alongside the retention of star defender Maxx Crosby, optimism is building regarding the team’s prospects for the upcoming season.”

“Most of the betting action we’ve observed has been on the Raiders to exceed their win total of 5.5, pushing the odds from -120 to -150. Their playoff odds have also shifted from 6/1 to +550. While their overall season expectations have improved, we haven’t adjusted their AFC or Super Bowl odds just yet.”

As noted by BetMGM, the most popular over bets thus far include the New York Giants at 7.5, Raiders at 5.5, and Minnesota Vikings at 8.5.

A $20 Million Commitment

Cousins stands out as an exceptional addition to the roster. As reported by Adam Schefter from ESPN, his contract guarantees him $20 million this season, with an option for two additional years at $80 million, potentially totaling $172 million over five years—an enormous commitment for a 37-year-old mentor.

During a pro day in Indiana, Kubiak and Raiders general manager John Spytek were present to witness Mendoza’s impressive performance, with Kubiak stating a preference for avoiding immediate starts for rookies like Mendoza. Instead, the goal is for him to develop, akin to Aaron Rodgers’ early career with the Green Bay Packers, where he sat behind Brett Favre for three years.

Last season, Cousins played for the Atlanta Falcons, who drafted Michael Penix Jr. after signing him, leaving Cousins surprised. This time around with the Raiders, there will be no unexpected developments regarding Mendoza’s signing.

Cousins was drafted by Washington in 2012 and boasts a career total of 44,700 passing yards, a 66.7% completion rate, and has thrown 298 touchdowns over 174 games. In 10 games with the Falcons last season, he achieved 1,721 passing yards and 10 touchdowns.